Government of Alberta Dispute Resolution Network

The Dispute Resolution Network (DRN) was formed by Alberta government employees in 1996 following a very successful conflict resolution conference, Interaction ‘96, sponsored by the Conflict Resolution Network Canada. DRN members include Government of Alberta employees from a broad cross section of departments and agencies.

Members advance the understanding and use of dispute resolution alternatives and collaborative, consensus-based decision making processes. They increase awareness of existing programs and resources inside and outside government.

The Government of Alberta Dispute Resolution Network Programs:

Agriculture Operations Practice Act Nuisance ComplaintsAgriculture and Rural DevelopmentThe Practice Review Committee may use mediation to achieve resolution for nuisance complaints directed to the Minister under the Nuisance of the Agricultural Operations Practices Act if both parties are agreeable 310-FARM (3276).

Alberta Environmental Appeals Board Environment and Sustainable Resource Development An independent Board that gives Albertans on opportunity to appeal certain decisions made by Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development under the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act, the Water Act and the Climate Change and Emissions Management Act.

The Board places a high value on its mediation program and encourages participants to use mediation as the primary way to resolve matters that come before the Board.

For more information, contact us at 780-427-6207.

Mediation Video: "More Ice Time"

The Board and Alberta Municipal Affairs and Housing collaborated to create this short video to provide an introduction to mediation. The video uses a fictional hockey/figure skating dispute as an example of how the mediation process would work in developing a resolution. Although every mediation is different, this video provides a basic understanding about the process and goals of mediation.

Child Protection and Intervention MediationAlberta Justice and Solicitor GeneralWhen a child or youth is assessed to be in need of intervention by a caseworker from Human Services, difficult decisions are made with which the child, youth, guardians and/or other with a significant connection to the child may disagree. Through the Child, Youth and Family Enhancement Act, mediation is an option to resolve these disputes. Edmonton 780-427-8329 Calgary 403-297-6981 Elsewhere in Alberta 403-340-7187

Civil Claims Mediation Program (Court of Queen's Bench)Alberta Justice and Solicitor GeneralThe Court of Queen's Bench Mediator Roster Service provides a resource that helps parties select an educated and qualified mediator to assist in the early resolution of their legal action.

Dispute Resolution Program (Calgary) and Child Support Resolution Program (Edmonton)Alberta Justice and Solicitor GeneralPrograms that use an early neutral evaluation approach to help parties resolve child support issues before a court appearance is required in the Court of Queen’s Bench. There is no charge to the parties for this service. Dispute Resolution Program, Calgary: 403-297-6981 Child Support Resolution Program, Edmonton: 780-427-1907.

Family Mediation Program Alberta Justice and Solicitor GeneralA an interest-based process that provides parents with an opportunity to meet jointly with a mediator to discuss family issues including parenting time, communication,child support and division of minor property matters. Participants must meet financial eligibility criteria to qualify for this program. There is no charge to parties who qualify for this service. Edmonton 780-427-8329 Calgary 403-297-6981 Elsewhere in Alberta 403-340-7187.

Restorative JusticeJustice and Solicitor GeneralRequires the involvement of the victim, the offender and community in a voluntary process that involves dialogue and reconciliation 780-427-3457.

Energy Resources Conservation Board (ERCB)The ERCB's Appropriate Dispute Resolution (ADR) program is an important factor in how the ERCB fulfills its commitment to regulate Alberta's energy resources in the public interest. Through ADR, Albertans and energy companies find unique solutions to balance different interests. Through the ADR process, industry and landowners are able to successfully negotiate concerns about most proposed energy related activities.